About this project

"When We Dead Awaken" is the first opera written by composer, J. A. Brown, adapted from the play by Norwegian playwright, Henrik Ibsen. The last of Ibsen's plays, "When We Dead Awaken" abandons the biting satire for which the writer is known in favor of a subtle meditation on the subjects of life, fulfillment, happiness, and forgiveness. Viewed by some as Ibsen's personal statement and swansong, this play contains a quiet intensity not because of what it says about society, but rather what it says about the artist.

The libretto for the opera has been adapted from the English translation (by William Archer) and set by Mr. Brown. This piece is scored for a chamber orchestra of twenty musicians and five singers and runs approximately two hours.

The production is run and performed by students of Bard College and the Bard College Conservatory of Music in Annandale-on-Hudson, NY.

*PREMIERE* April 9th, 8:00PM
*ENCORE* April 11th, 2:00PM
Olin Auditorium, Bard College

Conducted by David Bloom
Assistant Conductor, Sean Colonna
Stage Director, Emily Cuk
Production Manager, Jesse Brown

J. A. Brown, David Bloom, Sean Colonna, and Emily Cuk are students of the music department at Bard College--combining their experiences in directing, conducting, coaching, and performance, the company assembled here is prepared to present a new example of contemporary opera.

Why We Need Your Help:

As this production is completely student-run, there is no budget. The two performances of this opera are FREE and OPEN to the public. All those involved are volunteers. We need contributions in order to fund costumes, set pieces, props, and the cost of advertising.

This spectacle can only be made real with the help of enthusiastic backers, such as yourself. Help us to make art and set a new place in the tradition of opera!